Stunning Ammonite Brooch: A Quick & Easy Fabric Craft Tutorial

Updated at: 29/03/2025

Ammonites, those mesmerizing spiral fossils, have captivated humans for centuries. Their intricate patterns and ancient history make them a truly unique and inspiring motif. Now you can capture their beauty with this stunning ammonite brooch, crafted entirely from fabric scraps and a few basic sewing supplies! This quick and easy tutorial will guide you through creating your own wearable piece of prehistoric art, perfect for adding a touch of vintage charm to any outfit, or a thoughtful, handmade gift. Forget expensive jewellery – this project is budget-friendly and remarkably accessible, even for beginners.

Forget complicated techniques and hours of meticulous work; this project is designed for speed and simplicity. This tutorial offers a clear, step-by-step process that will empower you to craft your very own ammonite brooch in no time. So gather your materials, let your creativity flow, and prepare to be amazed by how easily you can transform humble fabric scraps into a sophisticated and eye-catching accessory.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Brooch back (MDF circle with pin attached)
  • T-shirt fabric
  • Dishcloth fabric
  • Air-dry clay ammonite
  • Fabric glue
  • Flat brush
  • Fabric hardener
  • Gloves
  • Plate
  • Bronze mica powder
  • Varnish
  • Paper palette
  • Hair dryer (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when using sharp tools like scissors or needles.
  • Use fabric glue or a strong adhesive suitable for the chosen fabric to ensure the brooch stays securely attached.
  • If using felt or other delicate fabrics, handle them gently to avoid tearing or stretching.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the base

    • Apply a thin layer of fabric glue to the MDF circle.
    Prepare the brooch base: Apply a thin layer of fabric glue to the MDF circle.
    Prepare the base

  2. Apply T-shirt fabric

    • Coat the t-shirt fabric with fabric hardener, ensuring complete coverage. Press it onto the glued base.
    Apply t-shirt fabric: Coat the t-shirt fabric with fabric hardener, ensuring complete coverage. Press it onto the glued base.
    Apply T-shirt fabric

  3. Apply dishcloth fabric

    • Repeat the process with the dishcloth fabric, applying it on top of the t-shirt fabric.
    Apply dishcloth fabric: Repeat the process with the dishcloth fabric, applying it on top of the t-shirt fabric.
    Apply dishcloth fabric

  4. Add ammonite

    • Place the ammonite in the center, adding a small amount of glue to the back and sides for better adhesion.
    Add the ammonite: Place the ammonite in the center, adding a small amount of glue to the back and sides for better adhesion.
    Add ammonite

  5. Shape and dry

    • Gently lift and scrunch the edges of the fabric around the ammonite, creating texture and shaping the brooch.
    • Allow the brooch to dry completely (about an hour, or use a hairdryer for faster drying).
    Dry the brooch: Allow the brooch to dry completely (about an hour, or use a hairdryer for faster drying).Dry the brooch: Allow the brooch to dry completely (about an hour, or use a hairdryer for faster drying).
    Shape and dry

  6. Add color

    • Mix bronze mica powder with varnish on a paper palette. Using a brush, apply the mixture to the brooch, dragging the brush parallel to the surface to highlight the texture.
    Add color: Mix bronze mica powder with varnish on a paper palette. Using a brush, apply the mixture to the brooch, dragging the brush parallel to the surface to highlight the texture.
    Add color

Read more: DIY Wonky House Brooches: The Fastest & Easiest Method

Tips

  • Use a small amount of fabric hardener; you can always add more.
  • Ensure complete coverage of the fabric with the hardener to prevent any white showing through.
  • Experiment with different embellishments in the center besides the ammonite.
  • Air-dry clay works well with molds for creating embellishments.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Felt Layers

Reason: Applying the felt pieces unevenly, resulting in a bumpy or lopsided ammonite.
Solution: Carefully align and smooth each felt layer before stitching or gluing to ensure a flat, even surface.

2. Inconsistent Stitching/Gluing

Reason: Uneven stitching or glue application leads to a messy, unprofessional-looking finish.
Solution: Use small, consistent stitches or apply a thin, even layer of glue to maintain a neat and tidy appearance.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make the ammonite brooch?
You'll need felt or fabric scraps in various colors (at least two), embroidery floss or thread, a needle, stuffing (cotton or fiberfill), a brooch pin backing, scissors, and a pen or chalk for marking.
How long does it take to make the brooch?
The entire project, from start to finish, should take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your sewing speed and experience.
Can I use different fabrics besides felt?
Yes! You can use other fabrics like cotton, linen, or even wool. Just be mindful of the fabric's thickness when choosing your stuffing and stitching.